Body odor usually occurs when bacteria on skin meets sweat. Whether an especially hot summer or your love of spicy foods is to blame, you’ve probably experienced body odor, sometimes at inopportune moments. Essential oils can be an effective, safe, and fragrant way to combat the problem.
Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for body odor are:
• Cedarwood
• Eucalyptus
• Lemon
• Peppermint
• Tea tree
Safety First
Talk with your healthcare practitioner if you sense your body odor is more than an embarrassing footnote, with a possible underlying condition.
Incorporate these aromatherapy practices into your daily regimen when body odor is an issue.
• Deodorizing powder. Combine drying baking powder with an antibacterial oil, such as cedarwood, and sprinkle the mixture wherever needed, including in smelly shoes.
• Simple application. Dilute antibacterial essential oils in jojoba oil and apply them to odorous areas using a clean cotton ball.
• Foot massage. Thanks to a tight, damp environment, feet may be the most susceptible to odor. Dilute 3 to 5 drops of essential oils in a teaspoon of carrier oil and massage the mixture onto feet.
Natural Partners for Aromatherapy
For maximum results, combine your essential oils with these other natural remedies:
• Change your diet. Processed and inflammatory foods may create detoxifying odors.
• Shave. If your underarms are your source of odor, shaving can reduce bacteria and odor.
• Use good hygiene. A bathing routine is necessary when eliminating body odor.
If you’d like to avoid over-the-counter deodorants, these aromatherapy remedies are some great alternatives.
Shake this essential-oil powder onto anything that needs an odor-fighting aromatherapy treatment, including armpits, feet, and stinky shoes.
1 cup baking soda
30 drops cedarwood oil
30 drops lavender oil
1 dark-glass shaker bottle
Combine all ingredients in a large glass bowl. Pour the mixture into a shaker. Sprinkle onto areas, as needed.
This rich, moisturizing deodorant features lemon and tea-tree oils to help fight odor-causing bacteria while using your body heat to emit a pleasant scent.
2 tablespoons shea butter
1 tablespoon cocoa butter
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon baking soda
2 teaspoons pure aloe vera gel
10 drops tea-tree oil
10 drops lemon oil
1 empty deodorant container
Use a double boiler to melt and combine the shea butter and cocoa butter. Remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before stirring in remaining ingredients. Pour the mixture into your container and allow it to set in the refrigerator before use. Store in a cool, dark place.